Benny Sawyer E30
Chris and Seb are back with an exhilarating new episode of the Slab Bodyboarding Podcast, Benny Sawyer, the champion of the 2024 Bodyboard King Shark Island Challenge.
After a six-year hiatus, the renowned Shark Island Challenge made a triumphant return to the intense, shallow waters of Cronulla, near Sydney, New South Wales. This highly anticipated event drew the crème de la crème of the bodyboarding world. Legendary names like Jacob Romero, Jase Finlay, Tanner McDaniel, Lewy Finnegan, Pierre-Louis Costes, Jeff Hubbard, Jared Houston, Lily Pollard, Mike Stewart, Dave Winchester, and even surfer Noa Deane competed for the top spot.
Despite the imperfect alignment of wind and swell, the competition delivered thrilling six-to-ten-foot surf, courtesy of a low-pressure system from Tasmania. This year's event featured exciting five-athlete heats, with the top contenders advancing to two semifinal matchups and then the grand final.
The live broadcast was a hit, offering fans around the globe live commentary, heat winner interviews, multiple camera angles, and stunning drone shots. Thousands of spectators lined the Cronulla Esplanade, while others had a prime view from the break’s channel. Thanks to the jet ski crew, the event maintained a high level of safety, quickly addressing any light injuries and ensuring all riders were protected.
The final heat was a showdown of local talent, including Andrew Lester, Marli Dunn, and the ultimate winner, Ben Sawyer, with an impressive performance from the outsider Michael Ostler. Sawyer not only clinched his first Shark Island Challenge title but also took home the Best Barrel award.
Since its inception in 1997, the Shark Island Challenge has stood as a pinnacle of extreme bodyboarding. Tune in to hear Ben Sawyer recount his victory and share insights on what it took to conquer one of the sport’s most iconic events.